Receiving a bomb threat is a terrifying experience. Fortunately, the vast majority of bomb threats are hoaxes. Nevertheless, you should still take the them seriously, since bomb hoaxes are crimes.[1] If you receive a bomb threat, don’t panic. Instead, remain as calm as possible and obtain relevant information from the caller. If possible, have a coworker contact the police while you are on the phone.

Check why the bomb was placed. Ask the caller, “Why did you place the bomb here?” If they say they didn’t place it, then you can note that information as well.

Many bomb threats are called into religious institutions, such as places of worship or community centers. Be prepared for the caller to use derogatory language. Nevertheless, write down exactly what the caller says.

Be persistent. The caller might withhold helpful information, or they may talk all over you and not let you ask a question. Continue to ask questions anyway. A good technique is to mirror what the caller has just said and then follow up quickly with a question.

For example, you can say, “I definitely hear that you’ve put a bomb in the school. Can you tell me why?”

Note any background noises. It might be hard to hear background noises while listening to what the caller says at the same time. One good technique: ask a repetitive question. For example, if the caller told you what the bomb was made of, ask “I’m sorry, I couldn’t hear you. Can you repeat that?” As they answer, listen carefully to background noises. Note any of the following:[9]

Review your notes. If you left something out, it’s best to supplement your notes now while your memory is fresh. You might have noted a background noise that you didn’t write down. Complete your notes soon after the call ends.

Evacuate the area. If people are located where the bomb has been placed, then you should evacuate the area according to your organization’s policies. Make sure the evacuation route does not take people past the location of the bomb.[15]

Alert your supervisor, if necessary, so that they can trigger the evacuation.

Don’t go looking for the bomb yourself. Now is not the time for heroics, and you don’t know how to defuse a bomb anyhow.

Community Q&A

What should I do if the bomb has been placed in my location, and the caller who can access the bomb is threatening to trigger it if I don't follow the orders given to me?

Community Answer

Have another person call the police immediately, and try to drag out the call. If possible, try to pretend to follow the orders. For example, if they want you to put their demands on the news, tell them you're working on it. If you can't drag out the call or pretend to answer demands, you should evacuate immediately or simply listen to what they want and do it.

Yes, of course. But really, you should leave the premises immediately after hearing of the bomb threat. Leave the building immediately, do not go looking for the bomb. Call the authorities when you get outside.